James S.Curlin (L) and Rajendra M.Shende (R), of UNEP Division of Technology, Industry and Economics, and Yu Xiaoxuan (C) pose for a photo.[BOCOG]

At a meeting held in Paris from July 10-11, Yu Xiaoxuan, BOCOG deputy director of Environmental Activity Department, made a brief account of BOCOG's effort to stage a "Green Olympics" and, in particular, to protect the ozone layer. He said BOCOG has put forth relevant requirements in the fields of Olympic venue construction, accommodation and reception, procurement as well as Olympic torch relay.

The UNEP side fully recognized the work done and hoped that BOCOG will step up publicity in the area and make the Beijing Olympics ozone-layer-friendly. UNEP also hoped that BOCOG will pay more attention to global environmental issues including the protection of ozone layer and reduction of greenhouse gas emission.

On November 18, 2005, BOCOG and UNEP signed a memorandum of understanding under which the latter will provide BOCOG with data and technical resources on environmental issues. The latest meeting is the first official exchange between the two sides since the signing of the agreement.